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Q. I have TMJ and the presenting symptoms (jaw pain, clicking, etc.) are text book. Will I have to have major in patient dental surgery? Are there any new innovative procedures like laser technology or less invasive procedures to correct and or alleviate TMJ problems?

Evelyn Samuel, DMD

A. You have brought up a very involved topic. The Tempromandibular Joint (TMJ) connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the skull. TMJ can also stand for Tempromandibular Joint Disorder or a group of problems that are related to the joint. Symptoms include but are not limited to clicking and/or popping in the joint, muscular pain, temporary locking of the mouth, facial pain, and headaches. It can be caused by clenching and grinding of the teeth, malocclusion (off bite) arthritis, injury, stress, and muscle tension. Treatment usually begins in a conservative manner with oral medication. In situations where patients clench or grind their teeth at night, splints or occlusal guards may be prescribed. Surgery is often a last result. In many instances the condition is temporary and improves on its own. Question? Email: info@drevelynteaguesamuel.com